Younis torments Australia once again

Former captain hits third successive ton and puts 'hosts' Pakistan in the driving seat in the second Test.

30 Oct 2014 14:33 GMT

Younis and Ali have put on 208 runs for the third wicket so far [Getty Images]

Younis Khan's prolific bat continued to torment Australia as he struck his third successive Test hundred to put Pakistan in a commanding position on day one of the second and final Test.

The former captain, whose twin centuries in the first Test secured Pakistan's 221-run win in Dubai, extended his red hot form to hit an unbeaten 111 and help Pakistan to a strong 304 for two wickets at close.

Younis, who turns 37 next month, added 208 runs with Azhar Ali (101 not out) in an unbroken third wicket partnership to boost Pakistan's chances of securing their first Test series win over Australia in 20 years.

Australia's bowlers struggled on a flat pitch that offered little for their pacemen, while their spinners rarely troubled the nimble-footed Pakistan batsmen.

Captain Michael Clarke constantly changed field settings, often employed unusual fielding positions, frequently rotated his bowlers and finally had a go himself, but it all proved largely fruitless.

To make matters worse, Australia exhausted both their reviews trying to get Younis lbw after their appeals had been turned down.

One shot that symbolised Pakistan's complete dominance was Younus's slog-swept six off Nathan Lyon in the 74th over that took the batsman to 86.

Younus struck Glenn Maxwell over his head for a boundary to bring up his 27th Test century and underline his stature as the lynchpin of Pakistan's batting lineup.